CIMARQ UNAB implements red sea urchin recovery initiative

The Marine Research Center of Universidad Andrés Bello (CIMARQ UNAB) in Quintay has implemented an initiative to recover the red sea urchin population through scientific research and laboratory reproduction. The process involves selecting breeders, fertilization, larval cultivation, and controlled growth to produce seeds for restocking.

These seeds are subsequently transferred to the sea and planted in management areas in collaboration with local artisanal fishermen. According to CIMARQ UNAB production head Alejandra Cabezas, each planting involves approximately 25,000 seeds. Previous experiences have shown a survival rate of over 70% for the specimens planted in restocking zones.